Sorry for time-stamped photos. I hate that function, but my camera had been left behind. So it was my cousin Timmy and his camera, and he just has to use it. Helps him remember, I guess 🙂

From my today’s Travelzoo e-mail.

For $29 per person, per night, snag a deal that includes all meals, drinks and activities at one of two Dominican Republic beach resorts. Save 75% with this special for these well-reviewed 3-star resorts.

This sale is for four- to seven-night stays at Lifestyle Tropical Beach Resort or Cofresi Palm Beach Resort & Spa through September 2014 — including peak winter dates.

CheapCaribbean.com guests receive exclusive access to twice-weekly private parties and the VIP beach featuring premium drinks, wait service and a sushi restaurant. Plus, guests have access to the facilities at both resorts. The beachfront Lifestyle resort features a two-level pool with swim-up bar and kids area, while Cofresi has a full-service spa, multiple pools and nightly entertainment.

This deal is not available on: Dec. 23-31.

Book by Oct. 18. Top 20 deal – sells out quickly.

I stayed there last year for $12 a night. I’m also staying there this November for $19 a night. Yes, all-inclusive. I can attest to the fact that at $29 a night, this is still a fantastic deal, but there are a few data points that you must know about this resort and how it operates.

The Good:

1. The grounds are gorgeous. This resort is huge. It actually encompasses the grounds of two resorts, the proper Lifestyle Tropical and Cofresy. It has lots of greenery and beautiful pools, all with pool-bar services.

2. Their newer Junior suites are gorgeous, and there is a chance you can score an upgrade at the check in. They are huge and modern with Jacuxzis and large terraces.

3. Their animation people are excellent.

4. The VIP beach offers beds, cool water Jacuzzis, good snacks, top-shelve liqueur, and the bartenders are very competent.

5. There are two huge parties on Thursday and Sunday nights; both offer great food and live entertainment.

The Bad:

1. The food is bland. Not bad, just bland. It was perfectly fine by me, but I’m not a foodie. Other people, judging by Trip Advisor reviews, were very unhappy with the offerings.

2. It’s hard to make reservations for the restaurants. It is possible, though. They give you two when you arrive, but you can reserve restaurants every morning between 8AM and 9AM.

3. Since the VIP beach is really that good, it’s a circus. The crowds start gathering around 7:30AM, and you must be there if you want to grab a bed.

4. The beach at the resort is nothing to write home about, and the pools close at 7PM. WTF?

5. That so called “Nightly Entertainment” is a joke. There is not much to do there in the evenings. Although there is a free shuttle to the casino.

6. Public internet is only available in some areas, and it’s pretty slow.

The Ugly (really ugly):

1. They sell timeshare. Yes, I know, everyone sells timeshare, but these guys are really, really aggressive. This is why they have these deals in the first place. Understand that you do not have to attend the presentation. Can’t say ‘no’ — don’t go. Yes, really!

2. According to Trip Advisor, some rooms are really, really bad. If you are unfortunate, you will have to go to the reception and change it. Which is an adventure in itself, because…

3. … The check-in area is a circus too. There are literally dozens of people checking in at any given time. Although they will give you a bracelet, so you could start partying while you’re waiting.

4. There is a cast system at The Tropical. You will not have access to some areas that are reserved for “shareholders” only. Yes, shareholders are those folks who have bought the time-share. Every time you get upset about it, try to remember how much you paid for this trip. It’s very therapeutic.

4. Some folks have reported food poisoning. Neither I, nor my cousin had a problem, but I will take Cypro with me this time. Just in case.

Some tips:

1. Do not go for a time-share presentation unless you’re really interested in buying! Even if you believe in yourself, do not waste your time. You’re on vacation, for Christ’s sake! They won’t call it a time-share, but it doesn’t matter. When it looks like a time-share and squicks like a time-share, it’s a time-share. When those white-shirt fellows approach you and start talking, just smile and say firmly: “No thanks”. Don’t stop and don’t look back, either. Practice at home, first :).

2. Go outside and have some fun. Go to the Sosua beach at least once, it’s gorgeous. Arrange in advance for local transportation and excursions. Check TA and grab some phone numbers to know who to call. The resort’s prices are at least double for that stuff.

3. Don’t sweat the small things.

The deal officially ends on Oct 18, but in the past, they have extended them.

Hi. My name is Andy Shuman. I'm an avid traveler, a travel and credit writer, and I'm the author of the bestselling Lazy Travelers Handbook series. My message is simple. Every American with good credit can travel for free. Not just cheap, but free! READ MORE